Craig Thrift

Craig Thrift

Business Attorney at Atlanta, GA

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Consultation with Attorney Craig Thrift

Great Business Attorney

About Craig

Learn Craig’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Business

30%

Thrift McLemore’s business lawyers are ready to assist with all aspects of the business, from the start up phase through progression into an established business.

16 years, 450 cases
Real estate

25%

Thrift McLemore’s staff has decades of experience handling a wide variety of real-estate matters.

16 years, 400 cases
Franchising

20%

Thrift McLemore advances creative approaches to both franchised and licensed dealerships to manage all customer-related legal and commercial issues.

16 years, 150 cases
Corporate and incorporation

15%

Thrift McLemore provides a full array of corporate law services.

16 years, 575 cases
Estate planning

10%

Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney for people of all ages and estates of all sizes.

16 years, 150 cases

KNOWLEDGEABLE, RESULTS-DRIVEN ATTORNEY. CALL TODAY (678) 671-5652

For over 15 years Craig Thrift has represented clients in business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, franchising, real estate, leasing, corporate, limited liability company, partnership, securities, financing, and general business matters.

He serves as a trusted advisor to businesses and their owners in evaluating potential deals and developing strategies for success. Mr. Thrift brings a deep understanding of the legal, tax and business aspects of transactions to complex deals including mergers, acquisitions and sales of businesses, private offerings, financings and loan transactions, and structuring and restructuring of corporations, limited liability companies, joint ventures and partnerships. He advises clients regarding loans, non-competition covenants, employment relationships, shareholders agreements, security, escrow and guaranty agreements, settlement agreements, promissory notes, secured financings and other types of business contracts. Mr. Thrift routinely negotiates and creates documents for entity organizations, shareholder and owner agreements, capital formation transactions, business combinations, sales of businesses, restructurings and breakups.

Prior to forming Thrift McLemore, Mr. Thrift worked with certain publicly and privately held real estate companies and was an attorney with the international law firms of McDermott Will & Emery, King & Spalding, and Jones Day. Mr. Thrift received his JD from Washington and Lee University School of Law and his BA in Business Management from the South Carolina Honors College at the University of South Carolina. He is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Delta Phi.

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Licensed for 15 years

State GA

Status Active Member in Good Standing

Acquired 2007

Updated 11/03/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Craig

Thrift McLemore

(678) 671-5652 Office

(678) 784-4001 Fax

1000 Parkwood Circle SE Suite 375

Atlanta, GA, 30339

thriftlegal.com

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

163 customer reviews

5 Star

99%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Gittens | December 8, 2022

Consultation with Attorney Craig Thrift

As part of my consultation with attorney Craig Thrift I received good advice that helped me in my case.

Posted by Peter | October 18, 2022

Great Business Attorney

Craig Thrift and his law firm reached a very satisfactory agreement to get the release to us of monetary reserves unreasonably deducted from our merchant account by our credit card processor in Georgia. I highly recommend Craig Thrift and his law firm to any company with this problem or any other business legal problem in Georgia.

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Posted by Westley | September 1, 2022

Help Is Only One Call Away!

I was an out-of-state home owner who was being fined for late HOA fee due when I had no idea the HOA was even functioning. In addition to my fees, I also had a terrible tenant who racked up several thousand in violation fees. I called Mr. Thrift to seek guidance and counsel because my HOA had sent me to collections. Mr. Thrift helped me by providing guidance and review of my letter that I eventually sent to the collection attorneys. I am very thankful of Mr. Thrift because I ended up saving thousands from the fees charged against me! If you’re in doubt whether or not you should call, don’t be!

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Posted by Brandon Morten | August 16, 2022

Great Attorney I would highly recommend

Craig Thrift is a great attorney who treats his clients well, I highly recommend him for anyone!

Posted by anonymous | April 6, 2022

Excellent

Craig was incredibly quick with his analysis of the contract I sent him, and his insight was more than helpful. Would absolutely work with him again in the future.

Posted by anonymous | March 1, 2022

Valuable Legal Advice

Highly recommended. Craig is a caring professional who helped us quickly find the best solution to a thorny rental dispute among co-tenants. No problem talking to two people in multiple phone calls. Everything handled with efficiency and expertise.

Posted by anonymous | February 16, 2022

Helped with NDA

Had a question regarding the information in an NDA. Craig was very helpful and friendly when we consulted. Would recommend.

Posted by Omri | February 14, 2022

Exceptional work for start-up business

We hired Thrift and team to review, optimize, and negotiate a commercial retail lease for our start-up. We're a direct-to-consumer eCommerce business and are branching into brick-and-mortar retail, and Thrift McLemore proved they have the aptitude, resources, and experience to help our business. The entire experience was top-notch and efficient, and all corporate stakeholders were satisfied with the work. We were under considerable time constraints to turn around lease revisions to the landlord, and Thrift stepped up to the urgency and delivered quality service within the tight timeframe. Thrift uncovered multiple opportunities to tweak lease terms in our favor and protect our interests. Additionally, the support team was knowledgeable, responsive, and helpful. I highly recommend this firm for any start-up that is in pursuit of capable, nimble, and effective counsel that is tailored to the unique constraints and objectives of your business. Will hire again.

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Posted by Pascha | January 31, 2022

The Best Attorney In Georgia!!!

Wow, where do I start? When I first spoke to Mr. Thrift I was extremely frustrated and stressed. I had already spoken to several attorneys before speaking with Mr. Thrift and was concerned that no one was taking my case seriously when it was severely impacting my business and my peace of mind. Mr. Thrift put my mind at ease immediately and was prepared to go the extra mile to assist me and examine certain aspects of the case right away that no other attorney had offered to investigate. I was immediately captivated and became a client. I am in awe of Mr. Thrift and his team. The work Mr. Thrift and his team accomplished was truly outstanding. They did an excellent job and I believe that my case included some level of creative and critical thinking that only an exceptional attorney would be able to execute. My case resulted in a successful Judgment against the other party, and I will now be able to receive compensation for all the trouble I went through. Thanks to Mr. Thrift, my stressful situation was turned into a victory. It does not get better than that! Craig Thrift is the best attorney in Georgia. If you are reading this and need an attorney hire him now don’t waste time!!!!

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Posted by Petrina | January 15, 2022

Excellent Service!

Craig Thrift and his team were excellent to work with. I used them to advise on a HOA matter. They were very professional and responsive (which can be challenging with some attorneys). I would definitely recommend them, as well as use them again if any issues should arise in the future.

Posted by Lyssa | January 14, 2022

Very fast and efficient

My case was handled very quickly! All interactions with Craig Thrift’s firm were professional and personable. Highly recommend!

Posted by Denise | November 15, 2021

Craig Thrift is my go to lawyer!

Craig Thrift has been amazing to work with! From personal to professional needs, he has an entire staff of creative, knowledgeable professionals that make the entire process a great experience. I have been working with Craig Thrift for years, and not only does he simplify the process from conversation to contracts, but he is always available to be that sounding board for everything in between. Once you are “legally covered” it changes the entire game. I recommend Craig Thrift to all my creative entrepreneurs whether they are just starting or going to the next level, he's the BEST! I have been working with Craig Thrift for years, and not only does he simplify the process from conversation to contracts, but he is always available to be that sounding board for everything in between. Once you are “legally covered” it changes the entire game. I recommend Craig Thrift to all my

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Posted by Latravius | November 15, 2021

Mr. Thrift really helped out our software business

Needed a lawyer for software business and related contracts. Mr. Thrift was amazing at helping us out. Very well priced and professional. Highly recommend.

Posted by tom | September 22, 2021

real estate lien question

Craig called me at the scheduled time, listened to the issues and gave good advice. I will hire him anytime I need an attorney.

Posted by anonymous | September 21, 2021

Helped me with land purchase

Mr thrift helped me and my husband purchase land in Georgia for real estate development. We live outside the state and his firm was able to do everything virtually. He put all of the documents and closing stuff together quickly and efficiently. He was priced at a fair rate and we would recommend him to other clients needing buyers legal counsel in Georgia.

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Posted by Leslie | July 20, 2021

HOA Issue Resolved

Had an issue with my HOA overstepping the governing documents. Craig gave me a great overview of the process, wrote two letters and my behalf and fortunately the issue was resolved with the HOA.

Posted by Lazarus | June 23, 2021

Simply the best in Atlanta

A true blessing to work with. Stayed focused and clam. Make sure to see him before making a final section.

Posted by Annie | May 26, 2021

Audit and compliance manager

After having a number of issues with a contractor for bathroom remodeling, we retained the services of Thrift McLemore. Jonathan Barash was very thorough in getting all of the details and getting our concerns communicated to the other party. After going through all of the steps of the right to repair process, we finally got the results we were hoping for from the contractor. Although it took time and patience to go through these steps, it was well worth it in the end. Kudos to Jonathan for his hard work. And let me not forget to mention Tessa who was professional throughout and a pleasure to work with ... and very understanding of our frustration and circumstances. Well done team! Highly recommended.

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Posted by Michelle | April 27, 2021

Stellar Attorney!

Craig Thrift is a stellar attorney! He always make time for me and answers my questions to the best of his knowledge. I can be very forthcoming with him, and in turn, I appreciate his direct questions and answers. I would highly recommend him!

Posted by Phyllis | April 26, 2021

Property line

He was very effective in communicating with my neighbor and addressing the issue with no continuous back and forth. Got the job done with one stern letter.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Senior Partner
Thrift McLemore
2011 - Present

Associate
McDermott Will & Emery
2009 - 2009

Business Development
Various Real Estate Developers
2009 - 2013

Associate
King & Spalding
2007 - 2009

Associate
Jones Day
2006 - 2007

Financial Analyst
Wachovia Securities
2001 - 2002

View all work experience

Education

Washington & Lee University
JD - Juris Doctor
2006

University of South Carolina Honors College
BA Business Administration
2001

Associations

American Bar Association
Chairman
2018 - Present

State Bar of Georgia, Business Law Section
Member
2017 - Present

State Bar of Georgia, Corporate Counsel Law Section
Member
2017 - Present

State Bar of Georgia, General Practice and Trial Law Section
Member
2017 - Present

Georgia Resort Development Association
President
2017 - Present

State Bar of Georgia, Real Property Law Section
Member
2016 - Present

State Bar of Georgia, Franchise and Distribution Law Section
Member
2010 - Present

State Bar of Georgia
Member
2006 - Present

Phi Beta Kappa
Member
2001 - Present

Phi Delta Phi
President
2005 - 2006

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent 2021
Martindale-Hubbell®
2021

Best Probate Attorneys in Atlanta 2021
Expertise
2021

Best Estate Planners in Atlanta 2021
Expertise
2021

Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Platinum Client Champion
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

2020 Client's Choice Award
Avvo
2020

Platinum Client Champion
Martindale-Hubbell
2019

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2019

Client's Choice
Avvo
2019

2018 Client's Choice Award
Avvo
2018

Highly Recommended
Alignable
2018

Platinum Client Champion
Martindale-Hubbell®
2018

2017 Client's Choice Award
Avvo
2017

2017 Gold Client Champion
Martindale-Hubbell
2017

Licensee Nominee
Georgia Bar Journal
2007

Tucker Inn Academic Excellence Award
Phi Delta Phi
2006

View all awards

Publications

Thrift McLemore Law Institute
Georgia Commercial Debt Collection: Attorney or Agency?
2019

Thrift McLemore Law institute
Defending a Mechanics Lien in Georgia
2019

Thrift McLemore Law Institute
Suing for Latent Defects in a Home Purchase in Georgia
2019

AVVO Legal Guides
10 Steps to Effective Estate Planning
2018

T&M Developer Conference
Offering Medium Term Timeshare-Backed Notes
2018

AVVO
9 Steps to an Effective Retirement
2018

RV Industry News
Rolling Timeshare - Fractionalizing RVs
2012

2011 Viking Advisory Group Newsletter
The Viking Capture Legal Solution
2011

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Georgia organizations (state)
"Issues Facing Heavy Equipment Dealers"
2019

2019 Thrift McLemore Resort Developer Conference
Legal Events Affecting Resort Developers
2019

Attorney endorsements

Received (20)

Given (34)

Endorse Craig

Matthew Collins

Business Attorney | Aug 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer I endorse this lawyer as Craig fights hard for his clients while looking for a creative solution to solve difficult legal issues."

Michael Fidrych

Unknown Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Craig is an experienced, talented, and creative attorney. A particular strength is his understanding of the intersection of legal and business arenas and utilizing that knowledge to provide impeccable service to his clients. I highly endorse Craig Thrift."

Brad Saunders

Business Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Craig is a highly intelligent and skilled business transactions attorney. He displays a wide breadth of knowledge in the business law arena and finds creative and practical solutions for his clients. As a fellow attorney, I am particularly impressed by Craig’s acumen in both securities and private equity transactions, two complex areas of law. Craig’s strong communication skills help his clients focus on the most important aspects of their transactions and render him a most effective negotiator. I highly recommend Craig to anyone requiring legal representation for their business transactions."

Stephanie Nullman Eban

Business Attorney | Jul 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Craig is everything you'd want in an attorney. He's one of the smartest people I've ever met and an expert in business, real estate, and estate planning law. He also happens to be incredibly easy to get along with. I strongly endorse him!"

Mark Johnson

Litigation Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse Craig. He is technically competent, represented his client well, achieved a good result for his client and is collegial. In an era where professionalism is in decline, Craig can disagree without being disagreeable."

Phillip Owens

Business Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Luke Durham

Business Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Andrew Grattan

Real estate Attorney | Jan 29
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Craig is very professional and responsive."

Kent Bailey

Consumer protection Attorney | Jul 17
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I endorse this lawyer. Craig has acted as a mentor to me, willingly sharing his knowledge and experience all in the interest of helping me become successful in the practice of law. I appreciate his "paying it forward" as this is not always the case!"

Alan Thomas

Business Attorney | Jul 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Craig is an outstanding attorney. He shows great concern for his clients and is an excellent communicator. He does an excellent job of staying in touch with his clients and puts their interests first."

Matthew Randall

Corporate and incorporation Attorney | May 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Austin Aaronson

Consumer protection Attorney | Apr 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Craig is smart, dedicated, and conscientious. He's an effective advocate because he truly cares about his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone who asks."

Scott Stark

Real estate Attorney | Apr 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Banks Huntley

Corporate and incorporation Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Craig for many years and I know what a strong advocate he is for his clients. Craig has the real world work experience and big firm pedigree to assist any client's needs."

David Raybin

General practice Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Worked together to solve a problem. Good insight and result oriented."

Brooke Alexander

Real estate Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer, his knowledge and expertise allow him to excel in his field."

Ryan McLemore

Real estate Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Craig approaches legal matters with acumen and creativity, and with the highest of ethical standards. I endorse him wholeheartedly."

Katherine Boone

Real estate Attorney | Feb 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Craig is a very smart, practical and business minded attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing help with development, real estate, timeshare or corporate issues. He is great to work with and very good at finding creative solutions."

Michael Meacher

Real estate Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Other

"I had the pleasure of attending law school with Craig Thrift and we remain close friends today. Simply put, Craig is one of the smartest people I've ever met. Together with his remarkable intelligence, Craig's infectious energy and vast business acumen have made him an invaluable counselor and friend to me throughout the years."

Mark Lukehart

Real estate Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Craig is a no nonsense, results driven attorney. He gets results when others cannot."

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